Electric-powered automobile - Testing the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: an electric car featuring a manual transmission and a powerful engine noise
Let me start by saying that the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N functions equally well as a regular car for daily usage as the standard Ioniq 5. It offers ample space, comfort, and easy handling. However, this statement does not make much sense.
To better comprehend the explanation, we need to delve a bit deeper: Although the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N shares the same platform with the regular Ioniq 5, the rest of the car is fundamentally different, which is why it costs about twice as much as its non-N counterpart.
Hyundai describes the Ioniq 5 N as a "true N," similar to how Mercedes-Benz's AMG is to AMG or BMW's M. The N label is for true sports cars that share only the base with their gasoline-powered siblings and otherwise differ radically.
So, how does an electric car align with the idea of a true sports car? Let's find out!
Brawny and bold
The Ioniq 5 N's exterior hints at its fiery soul. It features a sizable spoiler, stripes, a massive diffuser, more stripes, brake cooling, and a sleek body kit. Also, it has the usual 21-inch wheels and gigantic 400mm brake discs at the front, as well as painted brake calipers.
Inside, it's a somewhat subtler affair, but there are occasional N logos or other embellishments to remind you of what you're driving. The steering wheel particularly stands out; this is where the seriousness sets in if you desire it.
The chief difference between the N variant and the non-N is clear when you consider the specs. While the standard Ioniq 5 has a maximum of 325 PS, with the base model only reaching 170 PS, the 5N boasts a mind-boggling 609 PS at its disposal, with a boost button taking it up to 650 PS. This leads to a 0-100 km/h speed of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of over 260 km/h. The maximum torque is a staggering 770 Newton-meters - launch control gets you close to a rocket launch.
Its power comes from a 84 kWh battery pack. In the test, the range varied between 18 and 22 kWh per 100 km, leading to an estimated range of approximately 380 km. It's not the best value in this price segment, but the 5N can partially make up for this disappointment at the charging station.
Due to optimized charging power, the car went from 10% to 80% in an impressive 19 minutes, with charging speeds of up to 270 kW. This is outstanding and shortens charging breaks. However, on long highway drives, you're forced to stop, and from Dusseldorf to Hamburg, it doesn't travel nonstop.
At ease on the race track
The Ioniq 5 N is a car that thrives when driven at high speeds. Its sporty suspension and direct steering feedback make it a joy to drive on curvy roads. The acceleration is instantaneous, and the electric motor's sound recalls a Formula E race car. The brakes are potent and have a great pedal feel.
The Ioniq 5 N feels most at home on the racetrack. It's steady, precise, and has plenty of grip, making it simple to take it to the limit. The steering is accurate and direct, and the regenerative braking system supports one-pedal driving. The N Grin Shift function offers an extra burst of power for a brief period, making it even more thrilling to drive.
The Ioniq 5 N is a car that combines the best of both worlds - the performance of a sports car with the efficiency of an electric vehicle. It's a car that elicits smiles every time you drive it, whether on the road or on the race track.
The strength of the car doesn't necessarily come into play during long trips. Circuit driving is where it shines. Because only the Ioniq 5 N comes standard with sports seats, an entirely new braking system with extra-strong regenerative braking, significantly increased body rigidity, drive axles from rally racing, and numerous "N Technologies" specifically developed for this car. The car unites all this into - you guessed it - the "N Mode." With a single button, it fully transforms the car.
These systems serve both driving stability and quicker speeds, as well as satisfy the fun-loving side in all of us. When it comes to performance, the Ioniq 5 N doesn't have to worry about other cars. It doesn't compete with other Ioniq models, but rather with the Porsche Taycan, Tesla Model S Plaid, Lucid Air Sapphire, or even the Lamborghini Urus. Even gasoline-powered engines are in the crosshairs of this electric car. And if you want, it can impersonate them too.
This car, with features like individually-adjustable power distribution between the front and rear axles and customizable launch control for varying grip levels, keeps drivers in check on the track. It can even assist with drifting and includes the "N Drift Optimizer," which prevents oversteer during high-speed lateral acceleration. Although these elements may sound technical, they translate into thrilling, enjoyable driving experiences.
If you need to come to a sudden stop, the regenerative braking and brakes work exceptionally well, reducing the total braking distance. Additionally, the powerful regenerative braking prevents brakes from overheating consistently used on the track since they're not as heavily stressed as those in traditional combustion engines.
The N menu provides various options, with one requiring a certain degree of expertise. Options include saved race tracks upon which the car can record lap times if you're en route.
Let's discuss the novel features that make the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N stand out. For instance, you can select from several engine sounds that play according to driving conditions. You can also broadcast these sounds externally if desired. While the spacecraft and fighter jet options are intriguing, the combustion engine sound is particularly perplexing. If you listen to it for an extended period, your brain might interpret it as a motor and exhaust system instead of an electric drivetrain.
The illusion becomes even more believable when shifting to manual mode, as the car simulates an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and behaves as such. It will struggle to make progress if you shift too low at lower speeds and activate the limiter if you shift too high. The manual shifting offers amusement through exhaust crackles and dull thuds.
The development of this inconsequential technology must have been an arduous process. A silent, electric car that mimics an exhaust-powered vehicle and features manual shifting - what insanity! However, you have to experience it; as your brain accepts the car's fictional status as a combustion engine-powered vehicle.
Unfortunately, this function may not be practical for most drivers. Why forsake a hushed, vibration-free ride for unnecessary chatter and clamor? It's pointless in city or highway driving settings; however, it's an enjoyable extra at speed.
Lastly, consider the consumption when engaging "race mode." Driving according to optimal techniques, battery reserves deplete in five-percent increments. For instance, Nürburgring expert Misha Charoudin consumed 60 percent of the battery during two laps on the Nordschleife, which equates to approximately 42 kilometers. Though unsurprising, it's notable.
Epilogue: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
How much you appreciate the 5N depends on your perspective. If you view it as a competitor to the Taycan or Model-S-Plaid, you'll receive an equally high-performing vehicle at a more affordable price. While 75,000 euros may still be significant, it's a steal compared to comparable sports cars. It outperforms most vehicles - including its combustion-powered counterparts.
If you primarily use it as a daily driver, it might not suffice. Comparably, the standard Ioniq 5 serves most daily needs but at a slower pace with a smaller battery. The looks of the car would then hold significant value, especially if you don't frequently employ the 5N. It's still a vehicle well-suited for your needs, albeit somewhat extravagant.
However, the endless features available make this a thrilling experience, a mad venture into the world of cars - an absurd, yet irresistible venture.
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